The final matric exams starting on Monday is an important test, not only for those writing the papers but also for our national basic education department whose minister, Angie Motshekga, on Sunday declared it was all systems go. For the matriculants, it’s an exam that steers them into adulthood as independence beckons. Many will grow into our leaders of tomorrow as they learn to unleash their potential and discover their own unique abilities. The group writing this year has been through a lot, hopefully building resilience that will help them overcome future obstacles. Basic education department chief director for curriculum, Moses Simelane, reminded South Africa at a readiness briefing on Sunday the class of 2022 was “the most unfit group” due to Covid-19 interruptions.
This is why these exams are also a test for the basic education department which put in place several measures to try to support children whose learning suffered during a series of Covid-19 lockdowns, disrupting schooling to a degree never seen before. The department arranged for extra classes via the public broadcaster — on television and radio — a much-needed intervention, especially for poor schools where online learning was not an affordable option.
It is in no-one’s interest to see a repeat of the 2019 leak of the physical science and maths papers, a saga that made a turn in the courts and almost saw matriculants having to rewrite those papers.
The department will be tested on many other fronts too. Its ability to host leak-free exams is the single-most important test. Motshekga has said the department was working closely with security agencies to prevent any exam paper leaks. Pupils have also had to sign a commitment agreement binding them to follow certain exam rules, including disclosing irregularities through their school principal or the exam hotline.
Matrics have had to agree to give up their cellphones in case of allegations of cheating. The commitment agreement is not just a piece of paper. Just as the department needs to take all measures to avoid cheating, those writing the exams also need to take ownership of maintaining the integrity of these exams. It is in no-one’s interest to see a repeat of the 2019 leak of the physical science and maths papers, a saga that made a turn in the courts and almost had matriculants rewriting those papers.
Eskom’s load-shedding schedules throw up another test. Schools have been advised to use generators as backup during exams, but the department has said: “Where all else fails, we have opportunities for a rewrite for candidates.” This is less than ideal and a huge frustration for pupils and teachers who have no control over the matter.
The only real control they do have is how much preparation and study time they put in. As the 921,879 pupils sit down today to write exams, at 6,307 schools and 578 independent centres, South Africans will be watching in support, quietly cheering them on in the hope this group overcomes the many stumbling blocks on their paths. Despite facing myriadchallenges, may their grit and backbone pull them through in a show of strength.
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.